Undergraduate Research: Padmanabhan Lab, Biology, UMBC

Pavan Umashankar, '24 chemical engineering - biotechnology &  bioengineering track

When did you start your Research Experience?

Spring 2022 - ongoing

Where is your Research Experience?

Padmanabhan Lab, Department of Biological Sciences, UMBC

What is the focus of your Research Experience ?

I am studying the molecular pathways that regulate protein stability and turnover of ubiquitin-specific protease 15 (USP15) in ovarian cancer cells. USP15 has been implicated in ovarian cancer progression and metastasis, thus study of USP15's roles in the disease is key to constructing a better understanding of ovarian cancer and to develop more effective therapeutic options.

What was the best part of your Research Experience OR What was the biggest learning moment of your Research Experience ?

My biggest learning moments have been with regard to understanding and dealing with experimental failure. More often than not, it is likely that your experiment is not going to work as you intended the first time around (at least, this has been the case for me)! I have grown to understand that failure is especially integral to research, where we are constantly trying to explore unknown territory, and that it offers opportunities to learn new skills, knowledge, or even change research directions! This has helped me grow resilient as a scientist and better appreciate the research process.

What advice do you have for students who are interested in getting involved in research or an internship?

For a young scientist/professional seeking their first experience, it is so much more important to find a supportive environment than finding the "perfect" research/internship topic. Use your network of peers and faculty to check that the program is a good fit for your growth; Your research/professional interests will continue to develop as you gain more experiences.

Are you a member of any clubs/campus organizations?

Meyerhoff Scholars Program, American Institute of Chemical Engineers (AIChE), Tau Beta Pi, Teaching Fellow for ENCH 215 (Summer & Fall 2022)

What are your goals after graduation?

I plan to continue to pursue my research interests before matriculating into physician-scientist training programs

Learn more about Pavan Umashankar: 

https://www.linkedin.com/in/pavan-umashankar/